Despite being one of the largest motorcycle manufacturers in India, Hero MotoCorp has predominantly focused on the economy and utility segments. In fact, while these motorcycles make up the majority of the motorcycle market in India, it cannot be denied that a rapidly growing premium segment could be a missed opportunity for a company like Hero.
In fact, Hero MotoCorp is taking steps to develop a stronger presence in the premium range. Niranjan Gupta, the company’s CEO, recently stated in an article in AutoCar India that the premium motorcycle market is growing at “twice the pace of the conventional motorcycle market.” As such, Hero is determined to launch a wide selection of premium models with better performance and enhanced technology. We are already seeing the beginning of this with the newly launched Karizma XMR, as well as, of course, the brand’s partnership with Harley-Davidson in the form of the X440.
By the way, in addition to the recently launched models, Hero MotoCorp is developing four more models – two of which will be derived from the Harley X440 brand, while the other two will fall under the so-called “core premium” segment of the brand. Currently, Hero’s premium range, in addition to the Karizma XMR and the Harley X440, consists of the XPulse 200 line. The XPulse 200 4V is a robust dual-sport adventure-style model, while the Xpulse 200T is a road bike with a retro-inspired style.
So what is Hero MotoCorp going to do next? Well, the brand plans to open 100 exclusive dealerships for its premium model range, as well as upgrade its existing dealer network, consisting of 500 sales points. All of this is outlined in the company’s “Hero 2.0 Retail Plan.”
Could one of these new premium models make it to Europe?
